Spring Essentials

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For some, the arrival of spring means a return to the warm and welcoming outdoors, where flowers blossom in the backyard and the sound of birdsong fills the air. For your WWW editors, however, the season heralds a return to brighter colors, floral patterns, and eye-catching accessories, which is why today we bring you an outstanding roundup of spring essentials in WWW Picks! From of-the-moment pieces (like a peplum top and drop-waist dress) to classic accessories with a contemporary twist (a sunny yellow drawstring bag and a pair of incredibly versatile white heels), we curated a handful of options you'll certainly want to sport this spring.

1. H&M Top ($35)
We've mentioned our obsession with peplum tops before, but we'll say it again: this ladylike silhouette is one of spring's hottest and most wearable trends! Not only does H&M's short-sleeve version come in a cool minty green hue, but the way it nips in at your natural waistline is flattering on any body type. Pair the top with skinny jeans for a weekend-ready look, or combine it with a slim pencil skirt for a polished office outfit. We also highly approve of this peplum piece's budget-friendly price tag, which makes it a surefire sartorial steal in our opinion!

2. BIKO Crystal Fishscale Earrings ($55)
A pair of dazzling earrings is a must-have this season, and we think these aquatic-themed baubles from BIKO add just the right touch of flash to any ensemble. An artful mix of gunmetal chain, brass spikes, and vintage crystal studs, these fish-scale danglers are both edgy and totally glamorous. To really showcase these glittering accessories properly, make sure to pull your hair back and allow them to shine!

3. Joe Fresh Tulip Dress ($69)
Every season ushers in a new go-to dress trend, and this spring, we're absolutely delighted to reveal it's all about the drop-waist number! From Kenzo's Ruffled Taffeta Reversible Dress ($598) to Theyskens' Theory's Dubble Dress ($1265) and Giambattista Valli's Silk Flower Jacquard/Silk Chiffon Dress ($5278), this chic silhouette was all over the S/S 12 runways. We're charmed by Joe Fresh's take on the drop-waist dress; the boxy and structured top is cleverly balanced out by a full tulip skirt, and the result is a feminine silhouette that works just as well for office hours as it does for happy hours. Plus, we fully appreciate this pretty frock's solid red color, which makes a simply stunning statement. Try slipping on a collar necklace and cropped blazer over the dress for a fun date night look!

4. Alexander Wang Joan Mule Pumps ($545)
Admit it: while you own plenty of black, brown, and neutral-colored standbys, have you ever thought about investing in a pair of white heels? Since spring is the season to embrace lighter shades, we can't think of a better time to try Alexander Wang's leather ankle-strap pumps. With a sharp pointed toe and cut-out vents along the side, these sleek kicks can either enhance your outfit's edge factor or inject a feminine ensemble with some tough-girl attitude. The shoes even claim a celebrity fan--Rihanna's been spotted wearing them out and about--and their crisp white hue will be a guaranteed hit when you wear them on the town as well!

5. Zara Printed Trousers With Contrasting Waist ($80)
Of course, no spring essential roundup would be complete without a floral-print piece, such as Stella McCartney's Hibiscus Print Silk Crepe Trousers ($1052), Dolce & Gabbana's Floral Print Trousers ($530), and Matthew Williamson's Green Floral Print Silk Pants ($750). But if you seek a more budget-friendly option, thanks to Zara, we've found one we want to wear all season long! The label's cotton trousers, swathed in a multicolored profusion of flowers, easily punch up any outfit, and its contrasting black waistband lends a polished effect. We envision tucking a loose t-shirt or fitted button-down into the pants, then teaming the overall look with a pair of strappy heels for a sophisticated spring ensemble.

6. NARS Nail Color ($18, available May 1st) in Kutki
As soon as we heard that NARS (one of our favorite beauty brands) had collaborated with Thakoon (one of our most beloved runway labels) on a limited-edition collection of nail polishes, we knew the results would be on-point! Although we'd happily try on all six vivid lacquers, inspired by the rainbow-hued colors of Indian spice markets, we were especially drawn to Kutki. The opaque pale blue shade offers a subtle way of incorporating spring's ubiquitous pastel trend into your everyday look.

7. Elizabeth and James Thompson Vest ($325, 310.247.7779) in Black
Since they're the perfect transitional spring piece, it's not surprising that sleeveless jackets made an appearance in several S/S 12 collections (we were particularly fond of pieces like Dries Van Noten's Bizou Vest ($1080) and Lanvin's Sleeveless Tuxedo Jacket ($3885, 888.222.7639)). Blazers have long served as one of our main closet staples, especially since they transition so seamlessly from the workplace to the weekend. For one that clocks in at a slightly more accessible price point, we're enamored with Elizabeth and James' sleeveless vest, an elegant option that's lightweight enough to layer over silk blouses in warmer weather. Though it comes in fall-friendly black, the vest's cool twill and organza fabric won't weigh you down!

8. Dooney & Bourke Dillen II Drawstring Bag ($288) in Sunflower
You may have noticed that your WWW editors have a weakness for drawstring bags, and lately, we've noticed a number of lovely yellow versions, such as Marc By Marc Jacobs' Drawstring Bag ($563), Alexander Wang's Diego Bucket Bag ($825), and Viktor & Rolf's Drawstring Bucket Bag ($955). For a budget-friendly rendition, however, we adore this classic Dooney & Bourke option. The slouchy, bucket-shaped carrier is convenient for girls on the go, as the drawstring closure makes it easy to grab keys or cash in a hurry. But what we love most about this chic purse (aside from its cheerful sunflower yellow hue) is its numerous thoughtful details, including several interior pockets and an inside key hook, that make it a splurge-worthy purchase!--Tiffany Tse